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All 7th-grade AYBL teams from local middle schools in Ashburn recently competed in a grueling basketball tournament. AYBL is the basketball association’s acronym for Ashburn Youth Basketball League. Some kids have played in AYBL for years, while others are just starting their basketball course.

This is the logo for Ashburn Youth Basketball League. AYBL is open to 3rd through 8th graders in the Ashburn area.

On December 1st, all teams in the 7th-grade AYBL league played their best game possible to make their way into the winners’ bracket. The teams not receiving a win would sadly be sent to the losers’ bracket, where they only get to play one more game, win or lose. Although all teams tried their very best, there is, indeed, always the outcome of one winner and one loser.

Katie EllisTwo teams playing their way to victory. These teams are the Lakers and the Pistons.

Katie EllisOne team warms up before their game. Each team is given a small amount of time before each game to warm up.

AYBL has new rules this year that are not welcomed by many players, coaches, and parents. The new rules are that every player on a team must play at least 50% of the game. If a coach decides to break the rules, he or she will be given a warning from the league Commissioner. Coaches that do this run the risk of forfeiting their game.

AYBL is a mix of boys from different schools, and many students from TMS participate. Most players have been playing AYBL for a few years, but some are playing basketball for the first time. Ryker Calic, a 7th-grade student at TMS, thinks that basketball is more enjoyable when you have played for a longer time. “I have more experience, and so when you are better, generally you have more fun doing things,” said Calic. “I like this year better because now I am better at basketball.”

Even though some players may be new, the experience is not all it takes to help your team win games. A player can contribute to their team by doing things as simple as making good passes. Scoring just a few points is still a help to a team. Getting a steal or two and turn them into fast break points is another way to assist the team. These are some of the little things that players can do to turn a close game around and help their teammates win.

Overall, the Tip-off Tournament was a success, and most players enjoyed it. There are 18 teams in the league, all of which participated in the Tip-off Tournament. However, only one team became victorious. That team was the Raptors. The event was a great way to “Tip-off” the basketball season!